Lawyer Paul Hudson Poised to Challenge US Rep. Scholten in west Michigan
In a turn of events in the political landscape of west Michigan, attorney Paul Hudson will challenge incumbent U.S. Representative Hillary Scholten, D-Grand Rapids, in Michigan’s 3rd Congressional District. This comes after a successful bid in Tuesday’s Republican primary election, in which Hudson emerged victorious.
Hudson to take on Scholten
Hudson, heading the appellate division at the Miller Canfield law firm, won over Grand Haven entrepreneur Michael Markey to secure the chance to challenge Scholten in the next stage. With over 62% of the vote recorded, Hudson led Markey 54% to 46%. This race was called by The Associated Press in favor of Hudson close to midnight Tuesday. Scholten, on the other hand, breezed through the Democratic primary, securing a massive 91% of the vote against west Michigan businessman Salim Al-Shatel.
Prior to his congressional run, Hudson had sought a seat on the Michigan Supreme Court. He ran a close race in 2022, falling fourth in a contest for two seats. His current campaign emphasizes reducing government spending, cutting taxes, and strengthening immigration law to fortify the U.S. southern border.
Contrasting Visions
In a statement released by Hudson, he outlined the differences he sees between himself and his opponent, Scholten. He emphasized that his candidacy represents a positive, unifying vision promoting growth, prosperity, and security for all of west Michigan and the nation. Scholten, according to Hudson, campaigned for moderate bipartisanship but shifted towards party-line progressive stance once in Congress.
Scholten, however, argues that she has been effective in her position, noting on a social media platform that she has delivered on the issues that matter most to the residents of west Michigan.
Upcoming Battle in the 3rd District
The 3rd District, centered around Grand Rapids – Michigan’s second-largest city – covers most of Kent County, spanning west to Lake Michigan, taking in the city of Muskegon and northern Ottawa County. Following redistricting before the 2022 midterm elections, it inclined heavily Democratic.
The Cook Political Report projects the district as likely Democratic, suggesting Scholten has the upper hand for reelection. However, the rise of Hudson, who enjoys robust support among Republican establishments, could generate a contest. Hudson’s campaign, however, is at a financial disadvantage possessing around $306,000 in cash at the reporting period’s end, according to the Federal Elections Commission. In contrast, Scholten’s campaign had over $2.4 million on hand.
As the elections approach, all eyes in west Michigan will be on the unfolding battle in Michigan’s 3rd Congressional District.
Author: STAFF HERE NOVI WRITER
NOVI STAFF WRITER The NOVI STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENovi.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Novi, Oakland County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Motor City Comic Con, Michigan State Fair, and Novi Home and Garden Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Novi Chamber of Commerce and Novi Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in automotive, technology, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Gentherm, Stoneridge, and Daifuku North America. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
